Finishing Basement

Finishing a basement requires a building permit for the alterations of an existing space. Most of our customers will utilize our finished basement publicationas an alternative to drawing detailed plans. Simply draw a floor plan of your intended changes and you can use the publication in lieu of further details.

Two copies of a plan view of the basement must be provided identifying each room, existing and new in the basement i.e., study, family room, laundry room, and bedroom. Stairs and other egresses, as required by code, must be shown on the plan view. If an egress window or door is to be added or enlarged, additional plans and a plan review may be required; please contact the plan review staff for more information.

Properties on a septic system require Health Department approval for the addition of one or more bedrooms. Applications will be accepted without verification form, however must be provided before issuance of the permit will take place.

If the basement includes a bedroom, full-bath and a wet bar or other kitchen facilities, you may be required to record a basement affidavitin conjunction with the renovations, unless the intent is to create a basement apartment, in which case the procedures for accessory dwelling unitsmust be followed.

Fees. If the walk-thru process is utilized, all fees must be paid at time of submission/walk-through. Otherwise, base fees are paid up front and remainder of fees are paid when permit is issued. See our currentFee Schedule for more specific fee information.

Review and Approval Process

TheWalk-thru program can be utilized if the work does not involve structural changes; if the application does not qualify for the Walk-thru program the application is reviewed by the Building Plans Reviewer, and, in some cases, Zoning staff. See Plan Review for more detail about the Building Plans Review process.

Issuance

When returning to pick up the permit you will need to pay the remaining fees. The balance due will be provided by Permitting staff when they call.

Construction

During the construction process periodic inspections are required. See Inspectionsfor more details.

Occupancy

In certain circumstances, a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is required before the space may be utilized. The CO cannot be issued until the following are completed/provided: